Red-eyed Armored Skink (Tribolonotus gracilis)A.K.A. Red-eyed Crocodile SkinkDescription:
Red-eyed Armored Skinks are small grey lizards with spiky scales resembling a crocodilian and orange to red rings around their eyes. They will grow up to 6-8 inches long. These lizards can live up to 10-15 years if taken care of properly. They are a good lizard for beginner reptile owners, as they are docile and will play dead rather than bite even when threatened. Unlike most lizards, these skinks make a distinctive chirping noise.Habitat and Tank Requirements:
This species is native to New Guinea.
These lizards do well with sand or sand/gravel mix as a substrate. It should be deep enough for your lizard to burrow into. Be sure to put enough plants, rocks, and wood in the tank for your lizard to hide in and climb on.
These lizards donít need much space and one adult Red-eyed Armored Skinks only needs a 10-15 gallon tank. If keeping more than one, be sure you only keep one male per tank. A screen cover is recommended for your tank, as it allows better airflow and heating.
A comfortable temperature for these lizards is around 71-83ļ F during the day with a slight drop at night. LEDs or other low-wattage light bulbs work best for maintaining these temperatures. A small heat pad is recommended for basking.
Your tank should have a small, shallow bowl of water that is cleaned daily. This is for your lizard to drink from as well as wade in. Some lizards wonít drink from a bowl. In this case some sort of dropper is recommended. Youíll also want to mist the tank with a spray bottle every 2-3 days.Diet:
Red-eyed Armored Skinks will feed on small crickets, fruit flies, mealworms, wax worms, and any other insect small enough for them to ingest. It is recommended that food be dusted with calcium to prevent bone softening.Handling:
Allow your lizard time to become accustomed to its new home before handling them extensively. Handling them little by little over a period of time lets the animal get used to you and reduces stress.